Freelance journalist Molly McCluskey divides her time between Washington, D.C. and various cities in Europe — but keeps returning to the land of her ancestors, Ireland. She lived in Galway city last summer and will be returning for a second dose of Irish hospitality this summer. Here are a few of her favorite things about the “City of the Tribes.” Add your own two cents by leaving a comment.

When someone comes to visit me, the first place I take them is forafternoon tea at Hotel Meyrick. It’s right next to the bus and train station, so it’s perfect for new arrivals in need of a rest and recharge. The historical hotel overlooks the lovely Eyre Square and is a great place to get one’s bearings.

Fall is the best time to visit my city because the crowds thin, there are exceptional festivals, and the weather isn’t truly terrible.

My city’s best museum is the Galway City Museum because the building houses both permanent and revolving exhibits, offers classes, and has a charming café. It also has free admission.

If there’s one thing you should know about getting around my city, it’s that the best way to see my city is by foot or bike. Everything’s accessible.

The best place to spend time outdoors in my city is in the Burren. Lace up your boots and go for a hike, but don’t wait for the sunshine. The place is stunning even when it’s overcast. If I want to go for a stroll, I walk along the River Corrib down to Salthill.

My city really knows how to celebrate being Irish! because there’s a festival for just about every aspect of life in Galway.

You can tell if someone is from my city if they greet you with “Howsa-goin’?”

Just outside my city, you can visit the Cliffs of Moher, a short bus ride away. If you hike far enough (and hop a fence), you can escape the tourists.

My city is known for being traditionally Irish in language, song, and dance, but it’s really also a modern, global city.

The best outdoor market in my city is the Galway Market on Church Lane.

When I think about my city, the song that comes to mind is “Galway Girl” by Steve Earle. Even if you could get the catchy rhythm out of your head (good luck!), you won’t be able to miss the plethora of T-shirts bearing the slogan in every souvenir shop you pass.

In 140 characters or less, the world should heart my city because it’s got a thriving live music scene, fantastic restaurants, and is perfectly situated for exploring the west coast of Ireland.

Comments

Barry

July 7, 2014, 7:45 am

Yes, agree with Fergal – FAI Cup is a non-event really – Galway Races is the big event – otherwise the All-Ireland Hurling or Football series depending on how Galway get on. Also some kick-boxing in the Black Box theatre if you’re so inclined!

Fergal

Ireland

July 1, 2013, 3:54 pm

Some nice answers. That FAI Cup being the biggest sporting event in the city was a disastrous answer though. Try the Galway Races (horseracing) or for watching sports in pubs around the city, try local sports “hurling” and “gaelic football”. Their hurling team is particularly good, reached the final last year. You could catch a game live close enough to the city sometimes too

Josh

Baltimore, MD

June 13, 2013, 11:51 am

I love Galway. I went backpacking through Ireland after college for a fun adventure. Galway and Doolin (small town south of Galway) were my favorite locations in the Country. I would go back in a second if I didn’t have a million other places I wanted to see as well.

Paul Grealish

The Kings Head Pub Galway

June 12, 2013, 9:24 am

Hi Molly, great article. Appreciate the mention of The Kings Head pub which my wife & I run. You offer fantastic tips for any visitor to Galway. Well done!
Paul g

Your article makes me want to make Galway the next place I visit! Thanks for all the great suggestions!

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